[The Epistle of Philemon] Response of Faith and LoveVoorbeeld

The Beloved in Christ

What does it mean to be loved in Christ? Many of us have known Christ’s love, which has changed our lives. That love is multiplied when we express it to others.

In Philemon, verses 15-16, we read that Paul is encouraging Philemon to show Onesimus this great love that has been given through faith in Jesus Christ.

Perhaps there was a real purpose in God’s economy for Onesimus to get away from Philemon. In Romans 8:28, Paul says that all things work together for good to those who are in Christ. That is because God’s plans are perfect. Every situation we go through has an eternal purpose at play for God. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus no longer as a temporary slave but as a brother in Christ.

What kind of relationship do a servant and a master have in Christ as brothers? Brotherhood is a strong bond, and Paul encouraged Philemon to put it into practice. Philemon’s response would set a precedent for other slaveholders. By the world’s standards, restoring a relationship with someone formerly beneath you and forsook you is impossible, but in Christ, it is possible. Onesimus could work alongside Philemon for eternal purposes, both preaching the Gospel. Both men would be transformed by making a choice based on faith and love.

When we step out in faith and love to restore relationships, we open the door for God to do amazing things. A letter circulated from an early church father named Ignatius, fifty years after Philemon was written. It was written to a bishop of the church at Ephesus, whose name was Onesimus. We don’t know for sure if it was the same Onesimus, but imagine what can happen in people’s lives when we take a chance on faith and love and forgive. Paul did. Onesimus did. And Philemon did. Will you?

Lord, thank You for Your great love for us and the comfort of the faith we share with brothers and sisters around the world! Please, help us to forgive even those who have betrayed us, and let us show the world Your love reigns supreme.

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